This bill amends several sections of Louisiana's transportation laws to enhance the operational efficiency and oversight of the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD). Key provisions include the requirement for the assistant secretary of project delivery to consult with the chief engineer on project planning and implementation, improving coordination throughout project development. The bill mandates that district offices publish weekly updates on construction and maintenance work and establishes an interactive online system for public monitoring of project statuses statewide. It also introduces new reporting requirements for unexpended budget allotments and emphasizes transparency in the prioritization process for highway projects.

Significant changes include transferring authority over the State Highway Improvement Fund and non-federal aid routes to the office of Louisiana Highway Construction, effective July 1, 2025. The bill replaces the "chief engineer" with the "assistant secretary for project delivery" in various roles, reduces the warranty period for construction contracts from three years to one year, and modifies the selection process for tied bids. Additionally, it emphasizes maximizing third-party contracts for highway maintenance, introduces increased penalties for utility delays, allows fee waivers for certain governmental entities, and establishes guidelines for telecommunications tower management. The bill also repeals a specific section of existing law and directs the Louisiana State Law Institute to reorganize definitions within the statute.

Statutes affected:
HB556 Original:
HB556 Engrossed:
HB556 Reengrossed:
HB556 Enrolled:
HB556 Act :